Robert Vela

Dr. Robert H. Vela Jr. began serving as the 22nd president of Texas A&M University-Kingsville on June 15, 2022. His career has been dedicated to promoting access and opportunity to higher education across the state. He previously served as President of San Antonio College. Under his collaborative leadership, Dr. Vela developed a strategic plan that advanced the Alamo Community College District's goal of transforming San Antonio College into the best community college in the nation. In 2021, the college earned the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence--the nation’s premier recognition of achievement and performance among America’s community colleges.
Dr. Vela launched his career in higher education at Texas A&M University-Kingsville in 1997.